Notes
Good race. My lower right shin (the ligaments next to my shin, actually) had been hurting since Mountain Lakes 100, but since this race is at Oaklawn and Marla wanted to go I got psyched up to run hard if possible. I planned to stay within striking distance of the kid who beat me last year and then try to push past him around the 2.5 mi mark if possible.
He and two other guys went out at the front, and our first mile was a little under 6:00 pace. It was warm and humid but I felt OK. I was afraid my leg would hurt but it never did. I passed the kid a time or two on uphills but he passed me back on downhills. However, right around the turnaround point I passed him for good. He didn't seem to be having a great day. I was able to stay focused and chase down the next guy, and I was proud that my last mile was faster than my second. The guy in first was too far ahead, but I feel proud of my effort.
2nd place overall, 1st masters
splits: 5:56, 6:26, 6:19